1 Explore federal loans and compare to ensure you understand the terms and features.
Smart Option Student Loans that have variable rates can go up after consummation.
Federal student loans are required by law to provide a range of flexible repayment options, including, but not limited to, income-based repayment and income-contingent repayment plans, and loan forgiveness and deferment benefits, which other student loans are not required to provide.
Federal loans generally have origination fees, but are available to students regardless of income.